A few years ago, Reuben Horace thought any high school athletic success he had would come on a baseball field. He ended up having plenty of athletic success. He just wasn't throwing a baseball.

In between football and baseball seasons, Horace needed something to do in the winter, so he started throwing the weight in indoor track. By this season, he became one of the top throwers in the state and he won the weight throw title at the indoor track state meet.

“I love baseball but I just fell in love with track,” Horace said.

Horace was a natural in the throwing circle and he competed at a high level almost immediately. As a sophomore he qualified for states, and the next year, he grabbed a medal at indoor states, while also giving up baseball for outdoor track in the spring.

This year, he delivered his best performance yet. He came into indoor states as one of the top throwers, but not the favorite. That honor went to Classical's Joe Velez.

But Horace had the better day. His throw of 71-10.25 gave him the state title.

“It was pretty big,” Horace said. “Joe is a very good thrower and we're pretty good friends. That day, I just threw a little better than him.”

Horace's performance was just what Hendricken needed as it tried for its 17th consecutive state championship. The Hawks came up empty on that front, as Chariho snapped their streak. But Horace's feat didn't go unnoticed.

“We knew we were fighting for our lives in that meet,” said Hendricken head coach Jim Doyle. “We only came close because of people like Reuben.”

Horace ended up grabbing another medal at outdoor states, taking fifth in the discus. Now he'll turn his attention to a college career. Again, he would have pictured baseball, but a scholarship to throw at Boston University couldn't be better.

“It was tough giving up baseball, but as soon as you start getting better with the hammer and the weight, it clicks,” Horace said. “I love baseball, but track is my second love. I'm really happy with the decision.”